The Handara Gate is one of the most iconic Instagram spots in Bali, and chances are you’ve seen at least a few pictures of it on the gram. We’ve detailed everything you need to know about how to get there, what to expect, how to get the shot, and if it’s worth the visit. Here’s everything you need to know before you go!
Where is the Handara Gate?
The Handara Gate is in north-central Bali near the Munduk region. It is located on the main road in the area, Jl Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, in front of the Handara Golf Resort. While it’s a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Ubud, it’s a quick 30 minutes from Munduk center.
Overview of Handara Gate
| Address | Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161 |
| Entrance fee | 30K IDR ($2 USD) |
What to expect at the Handara Gate
When you get to the Handara Gate, there is a booth at the front of the road where you will purchase your ticket. After you purchase your ticket then you will walk forward about 50 meters and join the queue to take your photo.
While you may get lucky and get a short line, the queue can range from a 5-minute and 2-hour wait. Taking a photo is the main event here, since the gate is actually just the entrance to a golf course and resort.
How to get the shot
When it’s your turn to take photos in front of the gate, you can do whatever you want to get the shot – set up a tripod, take videos, fly a drone, etc. If you come with a driver, you can ask him to take photos for you; otherwise, other people in line will certainly be willing to take the photos to speed things along.
Each person is only allowed 5 minutes to take their photo, so make sure you’re prepared when your turn comes. When we were there, no officials were monitoring this; however, the people in line weren’t too happy when someone overstayed their welcome in front of the gate.
How to get to the Handara Gate
Rent a scooter or hire a driver to get to the Handara gate. While it’s most convenient to access from Munduk, you can still do a day trip to the area from Seminyak, Ubud, etc.
From Munduk
Getting from Munduk to the Handara gate takes around 30 minutes. It’s a very straightforward and safe drive, so renting a scooter is a good option for this route.
Handara Gate from Ubud
While getting from Ubud to the Handara Gate varies because of the insane traffic in Bali, the drive should take 1.5 to 2 hours. Because of the roads on the route and how long it takes, hiring a driver for the day would be the best option from Ubud.
Handara Gate Opening Hours
The Handara Gate doesn’t have official hours since it doesn’t have a gated entrance. However, unofficially, I’d say it’s open from sunrise to sunset since you will want daytime photos here. Similar to many of the popular Bali Instagram spots, the earlier in the day, the better in terms of crowds.
What to pack
- Certainly don’t forget your camera (check out the photography gear we travel with!)
- Cash since the gate is cash-only
- Sunscreen, hat & water because the sun can get really strong while you’re waiting in line!
Where to park
There is parking right in front of the gate near the ticket booth that can accommodate both cars and scooters.
Handara Gate Review – is it worth visiting?
In our opinion, no, it’s not worth the visit. To be honest, standing in line for half an hour in the heat to get a shot that we really didn’t find epic wasn’t worth it to us. While we are glad we went while we were in the area to understand what it was about, we certainly wouldn’t make the trip all the way from Ubud or anywhere else just to see this spot.
Places near Handara Gate
There are many other Instagram-famous spots and amazing things to do in Munduk, so make sure to check them out while you’re in the area! Here are a few of the most noteworthy spots:
- Wanagiri Hidden Hills – famous Bali swing
- Ulun Danu Bratan Temple – floating Hindu temple
- Banyumala Twin Waterfalls – massive waterfalls in Munduk
- Munduk Moding Plantation – resort & spa with the most gorgeous infinity pool sunsets!
Also check out Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida Island for gorgeous photos!
Hotels near Handara Gate
Just 20 minutes away from the Handara Gate is the beautiful Munduk Moding Plantation. This hotel is full of beautiful villas, two stunning infinity pools, and is also home to a sustainable organic coffee farm.
Check out the beautiful resort below!
